Based on the provided reference, you use but to show contrast.
The conjunction "but" is a simple yet powerful word used to connect two ideas where the second idea contrasts with or is different from the first. It signals a change or an opposing point.
According to the reference provided:
Use "but" to show contrast.
This means that when you have one statement or idea, and the next statement presents something that is opposite, unexpected, or different from the first, you can connect them using "but" to highlight this difference or contrast.
Practical Application
Using "but" effectively helps make your writing clear and shows the relationship between conflicting or differing points.
- Connecting Opposite Ideas: It links two clauses or phrases where the second one presents information contrary to the first.
- Signaling an Exception or Limitation: The information after "but" often provides an exception or limitation to what was stated before.
Example from the Reference
The provided reference gives a clear example of how "but" is used in this way:
- Example: The patient stated that she took a pain reliever, but it did not work.
In this example, the first part ("The patient stated that she took a pain reliever") presents an action. The second part ("it did not work") presents an outcome that contrasts sharply with the expected result of taking a pain reliever. The word "but" connects these two parts, explicitly showing the contrast between the action taken and the lack of the desired effect.
| Idea 1 | Connector | Idea 2 (Contrast) |
|---|---|---|
| Action (took pain reliever) | but | Result (it didn't work) |
This structure clearly demonstrates how "but" introduces the contrasting element.
Remember, "but" is a key tool for showing discrepancies or opposing ideas within a sentence.
